The way food is cooked can also significantly impact its health effects. Both experts noted that cooking methods play a crucial role in determining whether a food is harmful or beneficial. Dr. Harb explained that when chicken is grilled, fried, or cooked at high temperatures, it may produce harmful substances such as heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These compounds have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.