Certified angus beef chuck tender roast​

Marie cooking a comforting homemade meal in a warm, inviting kitchen, surrounded by fresh ingredients.

by Marie ,

On June 23, 2025

Close-up of certified angus beef chuck tender roast covered in savory onion gravy

If you love comfort food without the fuss, the Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast is a game-changer. It’s budget-friendly, surprisingly tender, and packed with bold, beefy flavor. Whether roasted in the oven or slow-cooked all day, this underrated cut delivers a hearty meal worth gathering around. Let’s break down what makes it special and how it compares to other chuck cuts.

Table of Contents

Preparing the Certified Angus Beef Chuck Tender Roast for Cooking

Preparing your Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast the right way is the first step to unlocking its incredible flavor and tenderness. This cut might look humble, but with the right prep, it delivers steakhouse-quality results from your home oven or slow cooker.

Start by trimming off any visible silver skin and excess fat. This helps the meat cook more evenly. Then, pat the roast dry using paper towels—removing surface moisture gives you that irresistible crust once it hits the heat.

Next, coat your Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast with olive oil. Mix up a blend of garlic, rosemary, thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper, and rub it generously on all sides. Let the roast sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking—this helps it cook evenly and retain juiciness.

Close-up of certified angus beef chuck tender roast covered in savory onion gravy

Certified Angus Beef Chuck Tender Roast

Print Recipe
A succulent chuck tender roast rubbed with herbs and garlic, oven-roasted to perfection, and served with rich pan juices.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword Beef, Roast
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings 12 servings
Calories 318

Equipment

  • Roasting Pan
  • Wire Rack
  • Oven

Ingredients

Chuck Tender Roast

  • 4 pounds chuck roast beef
  • 6 cloves garlic
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme minced
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 cups beef broth

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F. Line a tall-sided roasting pan with foil and place a wire rack on top.
  • Mix the garlic, salt, ground black pepper, thyme, rosemary, and olive oil in a bowl.
  • Rub the beef with the spice mix and place it on the wire rack. Pour the broth into the pan.
  • Roast for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 160°C/325°F and continue roasting for 90 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Remove from oven, let the beef rest for 15 minutes, then carve and serve with the pan juices.

Notes

TO STORE: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
TO FREEZE: Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
TO REHEAT: Place in oven-safe dish with broth and warm at 275°F until heated through.

Essential Tools and Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy gear—just a few reliable kitchen staples to do justice to your chuck tender roast:

Tool/IngredientPurpose
Chef’s knifeFor trimming fat and prepping the roast
Cutting boardA stable surface for seasoning and prep work
Roasting pan with rackElevates roast so heat circulates evenly
Meat thermometerEnsures the roast hits ideal internal temperature
Olive oilHelps seasoning stick and enhances crust
Garlic and fresh herbsInfuses rich, aromatic flavor into the beef
Beef brothAdds moisture and builds flavorful pan drippings

Using the Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast with these basics guarantees a meal that’s tender, flavorful, and full of character.

Discover great ideas like this oven-baked tri-tip roast for even more comforting roast options.

Best Cooking Methods for Certified Angus Beef Chuck Tender Roast

Slow Roasting in the Oven: Step-by-Step

One of the best ways to bring out the full richness of a Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast is by roasting it low and slow in the oven. This technique locks in the juices while building that beautiful crust every great roast needs.

Here’s how to oven-roast a Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
  2. Place the seasoned roast on a rack in a foil-lined roasting pan.
  3. Pour 1 cup of beef broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the roast moist.
  4. Roast for 15 minutes at 400°F to sear the outside, then reduce heat to 320°F.
  5. Continue roasting for 25–30 minutes per pound, until internal temp reaches 165°F for well-done or 145°F for medium.
  6. Remove from oven and let it rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

Oven roasting allows the Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast to develop deep flavor and a tender, juicy texture—perfect for a Sunday dinner or special occasion.

Using a Slow Cooker or Instant Pot for Tender Results

Want something even easier? Cooking your Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast in a slow cooker or Instant Pot is foolproof—and perfect for meal prep or weeknights when you don’t want to hover over the stove.

Slow Cooker Instructions:

  1. Sear the chuck tender roast in a hot pan on all sides.
  2. Transfer it to the slow cooker and add 1 to 1.5 cups of broth.
  3. Cook on LOW for 8–10 hours, or until fork-tender.

Instant Pot Method:

  1. Brown the Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast using the sauté function.
  2. Add garlic, herbs, and broth, then secure the lid.
  3. Pressure cook on High for 50–60 minutes, then allow natural release.

Both methods create incredibly tender beef with rich pan juices—perfect for shredding, slicing, or making gravy.

Looking for inspiration? Try this Dutch oven pot roast to explore another comforting classic.

Flavor Enhancements and Marinades

While the Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast is flavorful on its own, a good marinade can take it to the next level—especially if you’re planning to slow-cook or roast it to perfection. A marinade adds depth, tenderness, and bold flavor, especially when you give the roast time to soak up all that goodness.

Here are two crowd-favorite marinades you can whip up with pantry staples:

1. Garlic Herb Marinade (Classic and Balanced):

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 4 minced garlic cloves
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary (or 1 tbsp dried)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon red chili flakes for heat

2. Citrus-Soy Marinade (Bright and Bold):

  • Juice of 1 orange and 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Fresh thyme and black pepper to taste

Marinate the Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast for 4–6 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor). Always refrigerate while marinating and allow the roast to come to room temperature before cooking.

Best Rubs and Seasoning Combinations

If you prefer dry seasoning, rubs are a fantastic way to build crust and flavor without the wait. The key is to balance salt, fat, herbs, and heat. Here are two proven blends for your chuck tender roast:

Classic Herb Crust Rub:

  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon coarse black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (to bind)

Smoky Coffee Rub:

  • 1 tablespoon ground coffee
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Massage the rub into the surface of your Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast before searing or roasting. Let it sit for 20–30 minutes at room temp to let the flavors infuse.

Don’t miss our savory rump roast recipe for another herb-rubbed favorite.

Serving Suggestions for Chuck Tender Roast

Perfect Side Dishes to Pair with Roast Beef

A well-cooked Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast deserves equally comforting sides. Whether you’re hosting a Sunday dinner or prepping weeknight leftovers, these classic pairings round out the meal:

Side DishWhy It Works
Garlic mashed potatoesCreamy, rich, and the perfect sponge for beef juices
Roasted carrots & parsnipsSweet and savory contrast to the beef
Yorkshire puddingTraditional and absorbent for pan sauce
Green beans with almondsBright, crisp, and adds balance
Creamy horseradish sauceTangy heat that complements the richness

Looking for inspiration? Try this sirloin tip roast guide and mix-and-match sides across cuts.

Plating and Presentation Tips

You don’t need to be a pro chef to make your plate shine—just a few thoughtful touches make your chuck tender roast meal feel special:

  • Slice against the grain for tender bites.
  • Fan the slices across the plate for an elegant look.
  • Drizzle with warm pan juices or homemade gravy.
  • Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs.
  • Serve on a warm plate to keep everything at the perfect temp.

Presentation matters—even for a comfort food classic like Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast. A beautiful plate tells your guests (or yourself!) this meal is worth savoring.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

How to Store Chuck Tender Roast Properly

Leftovers from your Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast are like a gift that keeps on giving. The key is storing them the right way to lock in flavor and prevent dryness.

Refrigerator:
Let the roast cool completely, then slice or keep whole. Place it in an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil. Store in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.

Freezer:
To store longer, wrap slices or chunks in plastic wrap or freezer paper, then place in a ziplock or freezer-safe container. Label with the date. Stored this way, your chuck tender roast can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Tip: Freeze in small portions to make reheating quicker and easier.

Reheating Without Losing Flavor and Tenderness

The worst thing you can do to a beautiful Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast is overheat it. Here’s how to reheat gently while keeping it moist and flavorful:

Oven Method (Best for sliced roast):

  1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
  2. Place slices in a baking dish with a splash of beef broth or pan juices.
  3. Cover tightly with foil.
  4. Heat for 15–20 minutes, until warmed through.

Microwave Method (For quick meals):

  1. Place sliced roast in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Add a bit of broth or water.
  3. Cover with a damp paper towel.
  4. Microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals to avoid overcooking.

Instant Pot Steam Method:
Great for frozen chunks—steam on Keep Warm or Low Pressure with broth for 5–7 minutes.

Don’t miss our beef tips and gravy recipe for turning leftovers into something brand new.

Nutrition, Tips, and Common Mistakes to Avoid

Nutritional Value of Certified Angus Beef Chuck Tender Roast

One of the best things about a Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast is that it’s hearty and satisfying, yet relatively lean compared to other chuck cuts. When cooked properly and trimmed well, it can be part of a balanced, protein-rich meal.

Estimated nutrition (per 3 oz cooked serving):

  • Calories: 190
  • Protein: 23g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.8g
  • Iron: 12% of daily value
  • Zinc: 35% of daily value

This cut is an excellent source of high-quality protein, iron, and B vitamins, making it a great option for active families or anyone eating for strength and energy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Chuck Tender Roast

Even a top-quality Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast can fall short if handled wrong. Here are the most common mistakes home cooks make—and how to avoid them:

MistakeHow to Avoid
Cooking straight from the fridgeLet it come to room temperature for even cooking
Skipping the seasoning or rubUse plenty of salt, garlic, and herbs to build flavor
Dry roasting with no broth or coverAdd moisture—broth helps keep the meat juicy
Not resting the roast after cookingRest 15+ minutes so juices redistribute inside the meat
Slicing with the grainAlways slice against the grain for tender bites

A little attention to these details turns your roast from basic to unforgettable. The Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast rewards patience, seasoning, and just a little technique.

FAQ About Certified Angus Beef Chuck Tender Roast

1. Is chuck tender roast the same as chuck roast?

Not quite. While both cuts come from the shoulder (chuck) area of the cow, the chuck tender roast is a smaller, leaner muscle that resembles tenderloin in shape. It’s sometimes called the “mock tender.” In contrast, regular chuck roast has more marbling and connective tissue, making it ideal for long braising. The Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast is more uniform in shape and slightly easier to slice and serve.

2. What makes Certified Angus Beef better?

The Certified Angus Beef label is not just branding—it’s a promise of quality. Only 3 out of 10 cattle meet the strict standards to earn the CAB badge. These standards include superior marbling, tenderness, and consistency. When you choose a Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast, you’re getting beef that has been graded above USDA Choice, ensuring better flavor, texture, and overall eating experience.

3. Can I cook chuck tender roast in a pressure cooker?

Absolutely! In fact, cooking your Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast in a pressure cooker like an Instant Pot is a quick and convenient way to get ultra-tender results. After seasoning and browning, add broth and aromatics, and pressure cook on High for 50–60 minutes. Always allow for a natural release to maintain moisture and tenderness.

4. How long should I roast a 3-pound chuck tender roast?

For a 3-pound Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast, start by roasting at 400°F for 15 minutes to sear the exterior, then lower the temperature to 320°F. Continue roasting for 25–30 minutes per pound. That comes out to about 75–90 minutes total. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for well-done or 145°F for medium.

5. What are the best seasonings for a chuck tender roast?

The beauty of the chuck tender roast lies in its versatility. You can go classic with garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper, or try bold blends like a smoky coffee rub or citrus-soy marinade. No matter your choice, generously season the roast and let it sit before cooking to deepen the flavor.

6. How do I know when my roast is done?

The most reliable way to know your Certified Angus Beef chuck tender roast is done is by using a meat thermometer. For tender slices, aim for an internal temperature of:

  • 145°F for medium
  • 160°F for medium-well
  • 165°F+ for well-done or fall-apart tender

Also, the roast should rest 15–20 minutes before slicing to let the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is flavorful and moist.

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