The secret: low and slow. So yes, braised beef/lamb, or any other protein cooked over time.
If you don't have time for slow-cookers, try using an instant pot/pressure cooker.
https://reclaimingyesterday.com/instant-pot-moroccan-lamb-stew/
https://damndelicious.net/2018/04/12/instant-pot-pot-roast/
https://www.rachelcooks.com/instant-pot-pork-loin-roast/
Any chicken dish in an instant pot is going to end up at least as tender as baked, but IME, much more so. Chicken tends to shred easily after cooking in an instant pot too, and you can do noodles/rice with it. Something like this may not be a great fit after stomach surgery, but you get the idea:
https://www.jocooks.com/recipes/instant-pot-creamy-ranch-chicken/
You might also try velveting beef, like you do when making beef and broccoli:
https://www.masterclass.com/articles/velveting-beef