Each sensor node functions autonomously to conduct data transmission in wireless sensor networks. It is very essential to focus on energy dissipation and sensor nodes lifespan. There are many existing energy consumption models, and the problem of selecting optimized cluster head along with efficient path selection is still challenging. To address this energy consumption issue in an effective way the proposed work is designed with a two-phase model for performing cluster head selection, clustering, and optimized route selection for the secure transmission of data packets with reduced overhead. The scope of the proposed methodology is to choose the most prominent cluster head and assistant cluster head which aids in prolonging the network lifespan and also securing the inter-cluster components from selective forwarding attack (SFA) and black hole attack (BHA). The proposed methodology is Empowered Chicken Swarm Optimization (ECSO) with Intuitionistic Fuzzy Trust Model (IFTM) in Inter-Cluster communication. ECSO provides an efficient clustering technique and cluster head selection and IFTM provides a secure and fast routing path from SFA and BHA for Inter-Cluster Single-Hop and Multi-Hop Communication. ESCO uses chaos theory for local optima in cluster head selection. The IFTM incorporates reliance of neighbourhood nodes, derived confidence of nodes, estimation of data propagation of nodes and an element of trustworthiness of nodes are used to implement security in inter-cluster communication. Experimental results prove that the proposed methodology outperforms the existing approaches by increasing packet delivery ratio and throughput, and minimizing packet drop ratio and energy consumption.