Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté garlic (and onion/mushrooms if using) for 2–3 minutes.
Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer slightly.
Blend cottage cheese until smooth.
Stir the blended cottage cheese into the skillet along with Parmesan cheese, herbs, and chili flakes. Keep heat LOW to prevent curdling.
Return chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the chicken pieces.
Add spinach (if using).
Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
