Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment.
Beat softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy, 2–3 minutes.
Mix in vanilla until combined.
Add flour in two additions and mix just until a soft dough forms.
Fold in crushed potato chips and pecans until evenly distributed.
Scoop tablespoon-size balls, space 2 inches apart, and gently flatten the tops.
Bake 11–13 minutes, until edges are set and bottoms are lightly golden.
Cool on the sheet 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack and dust with powdered sugar. Cool completely.