I use the SRAM PC950. Cost me about £15, which personally is the most I think you need to spend on a chain. Seems to work fine with no issues.
It's the 9-spd version of the PC850 which is a fantastic chain for the money and has a reasonable life span, especially with someone like me who's pretty hard on their chain.
Chains will only snap if they have a weak link, usually created by poor installation. Take your time installing it, and make sure you measure the chain properly so you don't have to reattach links because it's too short! If a weak link is created then remove the outer plates of that link and replace with a powerlink (you'll usually only find it when it snaps). They're usually about a quid or two for three links, always carry a spare one just in case.