Step 1: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until just al dente, following the package instructions. Before draining, reserve half a cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set it aside, keeping it warm.

Step 2: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken strips with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat every piece evenly.

Step 3: Heat the garlic butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and sear for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown with crispy edges and cooked through. Once cooked, reduce the heat and sprinkle some mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Stir gently so the cheeses melt and coat the chicken. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, keeping it warm.

Step 4: In a separate saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but do not let it brown.

Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Stir in the dried basil and parsley, then season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce thickens more than you like, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it just enough. This step helps the sauce cling perfectly to the pasta without being too heavy or gluey.

Step 7: Add the cooked rotini pasta directly into the sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly so that every spiral is coated in the rich, cheesy Alfredo blend. Let it warm through for a minute or two on low heat to meld the flavors beautifully.

Step 8: Plate the creamy rotini on one side of each dish. Arrange the herbed, cheesy chicken strips alongside, or you can mix them together if you prefer. Spoon any remaining sauce over the chicken and pasta to add extra indulgence.

Step 9: Finish by garnishing with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or freshly chopped parsley. This adds a fresh pop of color and an additional layer of flavor that brightens the dish.