In a medium bowl mix together the dry ingredients; flour, baking soda, salt, and instant pudding mix, set aside. In a separate bowl cream together the butter, brown sugar, and regular sugar until smooth, then beat in eggs and vanilla. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter sugar mixture, mix until combined. Stir in semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Chill batter for 20 minutes (optional). Preheat the oven to 375° degrees and prepare your baking sheet. Grease baking sheet, or use non-stick foil, parchment paper, or a Silpat liner.
With a teaspoon or a small ice cream scooper, place a rounded teaspoon full of cookie dough on a prepared baking sheet, allowing room to spread. Bake for approximately 10 minutes, pulling cookies out when they are slightly golden brown around the edges.