Preheat oven to 325°F
Pat chuck roast dry
Season all sides with salt, pepper, and any desired spices
Heat oil in a Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat
Sear chuck roast on all sides until browned
Remove roast from pot
Add sliced onions, garlic, carrots, and celery if desired
Deglaze pot with beef broth, wine, or water
Return roast to pot
Add enough liquid to come about halfway up the roast
Cover tightly with lid or foil
Place in oven
Cook for 3 to 4 hours
Baste occasionally if desired
Check for tenderness with a fork
Remove from oven when meat is very tender
Rest roast for 15 to 20 minutes
Slice or shred and serve