Preheat oven to 325°F
Pat beef chuck roast dry
Season generously with salt and black pepper
Heat oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven
Sear roast on all sides until browned
Remove roast from pot
Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery if desired
Cook vegetables briefly until softened
Add broth, wine, or water to the pot
Return roast to the pot
Add herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves if desired
Cover tightly with a lid
Roast in the oven for 3 to 4 hours
Cook until the meat is fork-tender
Check occasionally and add more liquid if needed
Remove roast from oven
Let rest for 10 to 15 minutes
Slice or shred and serve