before cooking the chicken, ensure it's at room temperature after marinating
coat the bottom of a large pot with vegetable oil and bring to medium high heat
add the chicken and all its marinade to the pot and cook until all pieces golden brown on all sides, and the meat begins releasing its water and oils, 15-20 minutes
fold in the masala and cook on medium, covered, around 20 minutes
Uncover and continue cooking until the masala reduces and begins to dry up, then rehydrate with 1/4 - 1/2 cup of water so the masala forms a thick gravy consistency. Bring to a simmer, salt to taste, then remove from heat