Colin FosterBy Colin Foster

Updated November 2026

Yes, you can use parchment paper in an air fryer, as long as you choose the right kind and set it up correctly. Parchment keeps food from sticking, makes cleanup faster, and protects the basket. The main rule is simple: the paper must stay out of the fan’s path and must never touch the heating element. This guide shows you how to set it up safely.

Choose the Right Parchment Paper

Look for paper labeled as unbleached or perforated and rated for oven use. Standard parchment is coated with silicone and handles the heat of most air fryers, which typically run between 300°F and 400°F. Wax paper and foil-lined paper are not suitable, because wax can melt and smoke and foil-lined products can come loose. Check the manufacturer’s manual for your model, since some brands explicitly recommend against any liner.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 6 Best Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries (2026): Expert Picks.

How to Set Up Parchment Paper Safely

Cut the paper so it sits flat on the bottom of the basket with about half an inch of clearance on the sides. Never let it climb the walls, because the fan can pull it up toward the heating element. Poke a few holes in the sheet, or use pre-perforated paper, so air can circulate and the food crisps evenly.

Next, place food on top of the paper, not underneath it. Keep a single layer and leave space between pieces. Parchment that is covered in heavy sauce or piled with food can sag and block airflow, which leads to soggy results.

Step-by-Step Checklist

  1. Confirm the paper is unbleached, oven-safe and labeled for high heat.
  2. Cut it to fit the basket floor with roughly 1/2 inch of space on each side.
  3. Poke several holes across the sheet or use perforated paper.
  4. Lightly oil the paper or the food to prevent sticking.
  5. Place food on top in a single layer and leave room for air.
  6. Preheat the air fryer, then cook at the temperature in your recipe.
  7. Check the paper halfway through and shake or flip the food as needed.

Cooking Tips for the Best Results

Parchment changes how heat reaches the food, so you may need to add a few minutes to your cook time. Check for doneness early, then adjust. Foods with a lot of moisture, such as marinated chicken or wet vegetables, benefit most from holes in the paper, since steam needs somewhere to escape. For a deeper comparison of liners, see Silicone Baking Mat vs. Parchment Paper Guide.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Letting the paper touch the heating element. This can scorch the paper and create a fire risk.
  • Preheating with empty paper inside. A loose sheet can lift and blow around once the fan starts.
  • Using a paper sheet that is too large. Excess edges can get pulled upward and contact the top of the unit.
  • Skipping the holes. Without airflow, the bottom of the food stays pale and soft.
  • Using wax paper. Wax can melt and release smoke.

Pre-cut parchment liners sized for air fryer baskets save time and reduce the risk of oversized sheets. View on Amazon

Silicone-coated perforated sheets are a reusable option that can replace paper for many recipes. View on Amazon

A set of silicone tongs lets you flip food without disturbing the liner. View on Amazon

FAQ

Can parchment paper catch fire in an air fryer?

It can if it touches the heating element or gets pulled upward by the fan. Keep it cut to size, weigh it down with food, and never preheat with an empty sheet inside.

Do I need to oil parchment paper before air frying?

A light coat of oil helps prevent sticking, especially with breaded or sugary foods. Use a spray or brush, and avoid pooling oil on the paper.

Is perforated parchment better than regular parchment?

Perforated paper allows more airflow, which gives crispier results on the bottom of the food. Regular paper works too if you poke your own holes.

Conclusion

Parchment paper is a practical liner for air fryers when you use oven-safe paper, cut it to size and keep it out of the fan’s path. Add holes for airflow and check food early, since parchment can change cook times slightly. With those basics in place, cleanup gets much easier without sacrificing crispness.

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Colin Foster

About Colin Foster

Colin Foster is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our home cooking with appliances guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.