How to Cook Beef Chuck Tender Steak in the Oven for Maximum Tenderness

Chuck tender steak, sometimes called mock tender steak, comes from the chuck primal or shoulder region of the cow This affordable cut has great flavor potential but can be tough if not cooked properly. With the right prep and oven cooking techniques, you can transform chuck tender steak into a mouthwatering dinner

In this guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know to cook chuck tender steak in the oven. You’ll learn about choosing the right steak, necessary prep work, seasoning recommendations, ideal cooking times and temperatures, plus get a simple oven-baked chuck tender recipe to make for dinner. With a few easy tips, you’ll be enjoying tender, juicy chuck tender steak anytime.

The chuck tender steak is cut from the supraspinatus muscle of the chuck or shoulder primal. It’s also known as mock tender steak since it resembles tenderloin in shape but not tenderness.

Chuck tender contains a significant amount of connective tissue, so it can be tough if improperly cooked. But through moist heat methods like braising or oven roasting, the collagen melts away to yield fork-tender beef.

While less expensive than premium steaks, chuck tender steak offers big, bold beefy flavor at a budget-friendly price point. With special care, it makes for a satisfying meal.

Selecting a Quality Chuck Tender Steak

When purchasing chuck tender steak, look for the following characteristics

• Even marbling throughout with thin white fat streaks
• Uniform coloration without dark spotting
• Visible cube-like texture from tenderizing
• Trim, tidy edges without shredding
• 0.5 to 1 inch thickness for optimal cooking

Thicker cuts may be too tough while thinner steaks can dry out quickly. Always examine steaks closely before purchasing.

Preparing Chuck Tender Steak for Oven Cooking

Proper prep is key to ensuring your chuck tender steaks cook evenly and absorb maximum flavor, Follow these tips

• Pat steaks dry with paper towels
• Trim off any excess hard fat or silver skin
• Apply a rub or marinade to enhance flavor (details below)
• Let steaks sit at room temperature 30 minutes before cooking

Recommended Seasonings and Marinades

Since chuck tender steak lacks the richness of premium beef cuts, seasoning is important for maximizing flavor. Consider the following options:

Dry Spice Rubs

• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Granulated garlic
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika
• Chili powder
• Dried oregano

Wet Marinades

• Soy sauce
• Balsamic vinegar
• Olive oil
• Worcestershire sauce
• Garlic
• Rosemary
• Thyme

Let steaks marinate in the refrigerator anywhere from 2 hours to overnight.

How to Cook Chuck Tender Steak in the Oven

Follow this simple process for oven-baked chuck tender steaks:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F

This lower roasting temperature ensures the steaks cook gently without drying out.

2. Quickly sear steaks

In an oven-safe skillet, sear steaks over high heat for 1-2 minutes per side to build flavor.

3. Transfer skillet to oven

Place seared steaks in the oven and roast at 325°F, allowing 20-25 minutes per pound.

4. Check internal temp frequently

Use an instant read thermometer to monitor doneness. Cook to 135°F for medium rare.

5. Rest before slicing

Allow steaks to rest 5 minutes post-oven so juices redistribute.

6. Slice against the grain

Cut steak thinly across the grain for maximum tenderness.

Monitoring Internal Temperature

Cooking chuck tender steak in the oven requires carefully monitoring the internal temperature for your desired doneness:

• Rare – 120-125°F
• Medium Rare – 130-135°F
• Medium – 140-145°F
• Medium Well – 150-155°F
• Well Done – 160°F+ (not ideal for this cut)

Always use an instant read thermometer for accuracy since oven temps can vary. Check temperature early and often.

Oven-Baked Chuck Tender Steak Recipe

The recipe below walks through cooking chuck tender steak start to finish.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chuck tender steaks, 1 inch thick
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine olive oil, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a baking dish. Add steaks and turn to coat. Marinate 30 minutes or overnight.

2. Preheat oven to 325°F. In a large skillet, quickly sear steaks over high heat 1-2 minutes per side.

3. Transfer steaks to baking dish and pour marinade over top. Roast at 325°F for 20-25 minutes until 130°F for medium rare doneness.

4. Remove steaks from oven and tent loosely with foil. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing against the grain to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your oven-roasted chuck tender steaks with these tasty sides:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted asparagus
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Fresh green salad
• Rice pilaf or pasta

Drizzle steaks with chimichurri sauce or compound butter for added richness.

Key Takeaways for Cooking Chuck Tender Steak

The oven can produce phenomenal chuck tender steak when you follow a few simple guidelines:

• Select quality steaks with even marbling and trim
• Prep steaks properly and apply robust seasoning
• Quickly sear steaks before oven roasting
• Roast gently at 325°F, monitoring temperature carefully
• Allow steaks to rest before slicing against the grain

With this complete guide, you can look forward to tender and juicy oven-baked chuck tender steak any night of the week.