Mix all powdered spices with a little bit of water and set it aside.
Heat the oil in a pan and add the whole spices (laurel, cinnamon, cardamom, and black pepper).
Add chopped onion. Fry them until golden. Then add ginger-garlic paste. Sauté for a few seconds and pour the spice mixture that we have reserved before.
Sauté for a few seconds until the spices separate from the oil. Then add tomatoes, chicken, and salt.
Mix everything well and cook over medium heat until the chicken pieces are golden.
Then pour a glass of water. Rectify the salt and let it cook over medium heat. When the water has reduced completely and the sauce looks very juicy (as in the photo), turn off the heat.
Sprinkle with garam masala and serve with chapati or naan bread.