Melt butter on the stovetop or in the microwave, and transfer to a large mixing bowl to cool while you prep the rest of the ingredients.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda and salt. Set aside.

In the large bowl with the cooled melted butter, add light brown sugar and granulated sugar and whisk to combine.

Add the vanilla and egg, whisk until smooth and combined.

Add the flour mixture to the wet mixture and use a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula until just combined – don't overmix!

Gently fold in 1 cup chopped chocolate – save the other 1/4 cup for topping each cookie.

Use a large cookie scoop or tablespoon to scoop out even portions of dough onto prepared baking sheets.

Top each cookie with a few more of your reserved chocolate chips for a nice presentation, and add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt (optional, but recommended).

Bake one sheet at a time on the middle rack for 11 minutes, or until the edges are set and golden and the tops are puffy – they'll set and crinkle as they cool.

Remove from the oven and let cool on baking sheets for about 10 minutes then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. Enjoy!