Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment, leaving overhang for easy lifting.
Pulse oats and almonds in a food processor until a coarse, sandy meal forms.
Add dates and process until finely chopped and starting to stick together.
Sprinkle in coconut, chia, cocoa, and salt; pulse to evenly distribute.
Stir almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla together until smooth.
Drizzle in the almond butter mixture; process until the dough holds when pressed. Add 1–2 tsp water if dry.
Fold in chocolate chips by pulsing briefly or stirring by hand.
Press mixture firmly into the pan. Chill 30 minutes, then lift out and cut into bars.