Toast almonds by spreading them in a single layer on a plate and microwaving on high for 2-3 minutes (stir after each minute).

On foil-lined baking sheet, arrange almonds in a single layer over an area measuring approx. 13x9 inches.

In a heavy 2-quart saucepan combine butter, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Cook over med-high heat, stirring constantly with a clean, dry wooden spoon till butter is melted. Continue cooking and stirring for approx. 7-10 min. till candy is the colour of the brown skin of the almonds; it will start smoking slightly. Immediately pour candy, without scraping pan, over almonds, covering all nuts.

Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the hot candy. Wait 1 minute and spread the melted chocolate until it is smooth. Sprinkle with pecans. Let cool and break into pieces.

Store in a tightly covered container in cool place or refrigerator.