Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan and add the chicken pieces. Fry on medium heat for 4-5 mins and keep turning/ mixing to give an even brown colour. Remove and keep aside.
Now heat another 3 tbsp oil in a kadai or pan and add the cinnamon stick and the Ginger Garlic paste.
Mix and fry on low heat for a minute.
Now add the curry leaves and continue to fry it on low heat for another minute.
Add the chopped onions and mix & sauté on medium heat for around 7 mins till the onions are light brown.
Add the tomato purée, give a mix and fry on medium heat for 2-3 mins.
Add the red chilli powder, fennel powder and pepper powder. Mix it and fry on low heat for another 2 mins till the spices are cooked and oil separates. You can add a splash of water too while cooking the spices.
Now add the half-fried chicken pieces, mix well and fry on medium heat for 5 mins till the masala coats the chicken pieces.
Add 200 ml water, give a mix and cover & cook on low heat for 15 mins till the chicken is tender.
Remove cover, add the garam masala powder and give a mix. Simmer on low heat for 2-3 mins.