Preheat and prep: Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease a baking dish.
Season the chicken: Pat dry.
Mix salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Rub with olive oil, then coat both sides with the spice mix.
Make the filling: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add spinach and a pinch of salt; sauté until wilted and most liquid evaporates, 2–3 minutes. Cool slightly.
Combine cheeses: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and sour cream or mayo if using. Stir in the cooked spinach and red pepper flakes.
Taste and adjust salt.
Cut pockets: Using a sharp knife, slice a deep pocket in the thick side of each chicken breast, keeping the opposite side intact.
Stuff and secure: Spoon the cheesy spinach mixture into each pocket. Don’t overfill. Secure the opening with toothpicks.
Sear for color (optional but recommended): Heat a slick of oil in an oven-safe skillet.
Sear chicken 2 minutes per side for a golden crust.
Bake: Transfer to the oven (or move seared skillet straight in). Bake 15–20 minutes, until the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest and serve: Let rest 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks and slice.
Spoon any pan juices over the top.