Mix potato flakes with just enough hot water to make the potatoes stick together. They will be more dry than you would normally make them. I used a little less than half a cup of water.
Add vanilla and salt and stir until combined. Add just enough powdered sugar to make the mixture thick. It should be just a little softer than play dough.
Stir in the coconut flakes. The mixture will be thick, so you can just kind of knead the coconut in with your freshly-washed hands.
Line an 8x8 pan with parchment paper, then press the coconut/potato mixture into the pan.
Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring often until smooth. Pour the chocolate over the coconut layer.
Refrigerate for 2 hours or until candy is firm. Cut into squares to serve. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator.