bring water and salt to a boil in a small pan. when water is at a full rolling boil, add in oatmeal and reduce heat to low.
simmer on low until oatmeal is soft and water is mostly absorbed/evaporated, about 7-10 minutes (depends on how you like your oatmeal, really). when oatmeal is cooked to your satisfaction, remove from heat.
off heat, mix in butter, brown sugar, and vanilla. add chocolate chips to your taste, and mix until they’re just distributed, but not totally melted into the oatmeal. top with a sprinkle of more chocolate chips, and a sprinkle of kosher salt.