2001 Chrysler Neon What can a ticking sound be from my engi

Engine Performance problem
2001 Chrysler Neon 4 cyl Automatic

can it be from switching gears well driving because when I was driving on the highway my friend was sleeping and when woke by mistake switch the gear into neutral and then put back into drive again right away. It seemed to run fine next day and I was driving all day tell I got home I heard a ticking kind of sound from the engine can this be from switching gears or? Can switching gears do anything to the vehicle? Please get back to me soon i'll really really appreciate the advice thanks!