Can You Put Parchment Paper in Air Fryer Safely and Effectively

Yes, you can safely use parchment paper in your air fryer—but only when preheated and properly sized to avoid fire hazards. Choose perforated or air-fryer-specific parchment liners to ensure optimal airflow, prevent scorching, and make cleanup a breeze without sacrificing crispiness.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can use parchment paper in air fryers if it’s food-safe and heat-resistant.
• Always pre-cut parchment paper to fit the basket, preventing airflow blockage.
• Secure parchment with food weight to avoid contact with heating elements.
• Choose perforated parchment for better air circulation and crispier results.
• Avoid wax paper or foil—they’re unsafe and can damage your air fryer.
• Replace parchment after each use to maintain hygiene and prevent residue buildup.

Can You Put Parchment Paper in Air Fryer Safely and Effectively

When it comes to air frying, convenience and efficiency are the name of the game. From crispy fries to juicy chicken wings, the air fryer has become a staple in modern kitchens for its ability to deliver fried-like results with little to no oil. But as home cooks experiment with different techniques, one question keeps popping up: Can you put parchment paper in an air fryer? The short answer is yes—but with important caveats. Understanding how, when, and why to use parchment paper in your air fryer can make a significant difference in your cooking results, food quality, and even appliance longevity.

The rise of the air fryer has revolutionized how we approach quick, healthy meals. Its rapid air circulation system cooks food evenly and quickly, but it also creates a unique environment where traditional kitchen tools don’t always translate directly. Parchment paper, a favorite for baking and roasting, is no exception. While it’s a go-to for preventing sticking and simplifying cleanup, using it in an air fryer isn’t as simple as tossing it in and pressing “start.” Factors like airflow, heat resistance, and safety must be considered. This guide dives deep into everything you need to know about using parchment paper in your air fryer—covering safety, best practices, types of parchment, and real-world applications—so you can cook smarter, safer, and with better results every time.

Understanding Parchment Paper: What It Is and How It Works

What Is Parchment Paper?

Parchment paper, also known as baking paper, is a cellulose-based paper that has been treated with a silicone coating to make it heat-resistant, non-stick, and moisture-resistant. Unlike wax paper, which melts or burns at high temperatures, parchment paper is specifically designed for oven use. It’s commonly used in baking cookies, roasting vegetables, and lining cake pans. Its primary benefits include preventing food from sticking, reducing cleanup time, and promoting even browning.

Standard parchment paper can withstand temperatures up to 420°F to 450°F (215°C to 230°C), depending on the brand. This range is well within the operating temperature of most air fryers, which typically range from 320°F to 400°F. However, the key difference lies not in temperature alone, but in how the air fryer circulates hot air around the food—a factor that can affect how parchment paper behaves during cooking.

How Air Fryers Circulate Air and Why It Matters

Air fryers work by circulating hot air rapidly around the food using a high-powered fan and a heating element. This convection process crisps the exterior of food while cooking the interior evenly. The basket or tray is designed with perforations to allow airflow from all directions. When you place parchment paper inside, especially if it’s not secured or is too large, it can block or disrupt airflow, leading to uneven cooking, longer cook times, or even smoke if the paper edges catch on the heating element.

For example, if you line the entire basket with a flat sheet of parchment paper without cutting holes, the air can’t flow properly. This can cause food to steam instead of crisp. Additionally, loose parchment can flutter upward and come into contact with the heating coil—potentially causing a fire hazard. Therefore, understanding how your air fryer’s airflow system works is essential before deciding whether and how to use parchment paper.

Types of Parchment Paper: Standard vs. Perforated vs. Air Fryer-Specific

Not all parchment paper is created equal. Here are the main types you might encounter:

• Standard Parchment Paper: The most common type, available in rolls or pre-cut sheets. It’s great for baking but may require modification (e.g., cutting holes) for air fryer use.
• Perforated Parchment Paper: Designed with small holes throughout to allow airflow. Some brands offer air fryer-specific perforated liners that fit common basket sizes.
• Pre-Cut Air Fryer Parchment Liners: These are circular, square, or rectangular sheets with pre-cut holes and tabs, often sold in packs. They’re tailored to fit specific air fryer models and are a popular convenience product.
• Silicone-Coated Parchment: Offers enhanced non-stick properties and durability, ideal for sticky foods like marinated chicken or sugary pastries.

While standard parchment paper is safe to use, air fryer-specific or perforated versions are strongly recommended for optimal results and safety.

Is It Safe to Use Parchment Paper in an Air Fryer?

Heat Resistance and Safety Standards

Yes, parchment paper is generally safe to use in an air fryer—provided it meets heat resistance standards and is used correctly. As mentioned earlier, most parchment paper can handle temperatures up to 450°F, which is within the typical air fryer range. However, you must ensure the paper you’re using is certified for high-heat applications. Avoid using wax paper or any paper with a non-silicone coating, as these can melt, smoke, or even catch fire.

Look for parchment paper labeled “oven-safe” or “heat-resistant up to 450°F.” Brands like Reynolds, If You Care, and Kirkland Signature offer reliable options. Always check the packaging for safety certifications such as FDA-approved food contact materials. Never use parchment paper that’s discolored, brittle, or damaged, as it may degrade under high heat.

Fire Hazards and Airflow Disruption

The biggest safety concern with parchment paper in air fryers is fire risk due to airflow blockage or contact with the heating element. If the paper is too large, loose, or not secured, it can flutter upward during cooking and touch the heating coil. This is especially common in basket-style air fryers where the heating element is located at the top.

To minimize risk:

• Cut parchment paper to fit snugly inside the basket, leaving a small border around the edges.
• Use perforated or pre-cut liners with airflow holes.
• Never place parchment paper directly on the heating element or upper heating coil.
• Always add food on top of the parchment—this weight helps keep it in place.
• Monitor the first few uses closely, especially if you’re trying a new brand or size.

Some users report a faint odor or light smoke during the first use of new parchment paper. This is normal and usually due to residual manufacturing oils burning off. However, thick smoke, flames, or a burning smell are warning signs—turn off the air fryer immediately and remove the paper.

When to Avoid Parchment Paper

While parchment paper is safe in most cases, there are situations where it’s better to skip it:

• High-temperature cooking (above 450°F): Some air fryers have settings up to 450°F, but prolonged use at the upper limit may degrade low-quality parchment.
• Foods that need to crisp on all sides (e.g., wings, fries): If the paper blocks airflow, you may lose crispiness. In these cases, lightly oil the basket or use silicone mats instead.
• When cooking with high-fat foods (e.g., bacon, sausages): Excess grease can pool under the paper and smoke. Use a drip tray or cook without paper, then clean the basket afterward.
• If your air fryer has a non-stick coating: The coating is designed to prevent sticking, so parchment may be unnecessary unless you’re cooking very sticky items.

Ultimately, safety is about common sense and proper technique, not just the material itself.

Best Practices for Using Parchment Paper in Air Fryer

Choosing the Right Size and Shape

The first rule of using parchment paper in an air fryer is fit matters. A sheet that’s too large can block airflow; one that’s too small may not cover the cooking surface effectively. Here’s how to get it right:

• Measure your air fryer basket’s base (length, width, or diameter).
• Cut parchment paper to match the dimensions, leaving a 0.5-inch border.
• For round baskets, use a compass or trace the basket onto the paper.
• For square/rectangular baskets, fold the paper to fit snugly with no overhang.

Pro Tip: Use a hole punch or small knife to create 6–8 evenly spaced holes in the paper. This allows hot air to circulate while still preventing sticking. Alternatively, buy pre-cut liners designed for your model (e.g., Instant Vortex, Ninja Foodi, Cosori).

Securing the Paper During Cooking

Even with the right size, parchment can shift during cooking. To keep it in place:

• Weigh it down: Always place food directly on the parchment. The weight of the food (e.g., chicken breasts, fish fillets) will anchor the paper.
• Use parchment liners with tabs: Some brands have small tabs that fold under the basket, holding the liner in place.
• Preheat with food: Don’t preheat the air fryer with parchment alone. Always add food first, then start cooking.
• Use silicone-coated tongs: When flipping food, gently lift the paper to avoid tearing.

Example: When making air fryer salmon, place the fillet on the parchment, season, and cook. The fish’s weight keeps the paper flat, while the holes allow steam to escape and skin to crisp.

Cleaning and Reusability

Parchment paper is typically single-use, but you can extend its life with care:

• After cooking, let the paper cool completely before removing.
• If it’s only slightly soiled (e.g., baked potatoes, roasted veggies), let it dry and reuse once—never reuse if it’s greasy, torn, or charred.
• Store unused parchment in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture damage.

For eco-conscious cooks, consider reusable silicone mats as an alternative. They’re more durable, easier to clean, and can be used hundreds of times. However, they’re less effective for very sticky foods (e.g., honey-glazed chicken).

Top Foods to Cook with Parchment Paper in Air Fryer

Sticky or Delicate Foods

Parchment paper shines when cooking foods that tend to stick or fall apart. Examples include:

• Fish fillets (salmon, tilapia, cod): Prevents skin from sticking and keeps delicate flesh intact.
• Chicken tenders with marinades or glazes: The paper prevents sugary sauces from burning and sticking to the basket.
• Sticky desserts (cinnamon rolls, brownies): Makes cleanup a breeze and prevents crumbling when removing.
• Eggs (scrambled, fried, or omelets): Use a small parchment circle in a silicone cup for mess-free cooking.

Tip: For marinated meats, place the parchment in the basket first, add the food, and pour excess marinade over the top. The paper catches drips and prevents flare-ups.

Foods That Benefit from Even Baking

Some dishes cook more evenly with parchment due to reduced direct contact with metal. Try it with:

• Roasted vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts): Prevents charring and makes flipping easier.
• Baked potatoes or sweet potatoes: The paper absorbs excess moisture, leading to fluffier interiors.
• Reheating leftovers (pizza, fried chicken): Keeps food from drying out and prevents basket residue from sticking.

Example: To reheat leftover pizza, place slices on parchment in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes. The crust stays crispy, and cheese doesn’t stick.

Foods to Avoid Using Parchment With

While parchment is versatile, some foods are better cooked without it:

• High-fat meats (bacon, sausages): Grease can pool and smoke. Cook directly on the rack or use a drip tray.
• Foods needing maximum crispness (fries, onion rings): Direct exposure to air is key. Use a light oil spray instead.
• Very small items (popcorn, nuts): They can fall through holes or get trapped under the paper.

When in doubt, test a small batch with and without parchment to compare results.

Comparing Parchment Paper to Other Liners and Alternatives

Parchment Paper vs. Aluminum Foil

Feature	Parchment Paper	Aluminum Foil
Heat Resistance	Up to 450°F (silicone-coated)	Up to 600°F (but can reflect heat)
Non-Stick	Yes (natural)	No (requires oil or spray)
Airflow	Can be perforated for airflow	Blocks airflow unless crumpled
Safety	Non-toxic, FDA-approved	Can leach aluminum if overheated
Best For	Sticky foods, baking, reheating	High-heat roasting, covering dishes

While foil is more heat-resistant, it’s not ideal for most air fryer uses due to airflow disruption and lack of non-stick properties. Parchment is safer and more functional for everyday cooking.

Parchment Paper vs. Silicone Mats

Silicone mats (e.g., Silpat) are reusable, non-stick, and heat-resistant up to 480°F. They’re excellent for:

• Long-term cost savings
• Eco-friendliness (no waste)
• Easy cleaning (dishwasher-safe)

However, they’re thicker than parchment, which can slightly reduce crispness. They’re also more expensive upfront. Use silicone mats for frequent cooking; use parchment for sticky or delicate foods.

DIY Alternatives: When You Don’t Have Parchment

If you run out of parchment, try these safe alternatives:

• Lightly oil the basket: Use avocado or olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
• Use a silicone liner: As mentioned, reusable and effective.
• Line with lettuce or cabbage leaves: For steaming or baking (not crisping).
• Use a metal rack with oil: Elevates food for airflow and reduces contact.

Never use paper towels, napkins, or newspaper—these are flammable and unsafe.

Final Thoughts: Maximizing Your Air Fryer with Parchment Paper

The question “Can you put parchment paper in an air fryer?” has a clear answer: Yes, but do it wisely. When used correctly, parchment paper enhances your air frying experience by preventing sticking, simplifying cleanup, and protecting delicate foods. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, but with the right type, size, and technique, it can be a game-changer in your kitchen.

Remember the golden rules: always use oven-safe, silicone-coated parchment; cut it to fit with airflow holes; weigh it down with food; and never let it touch the heating element. For best results, invest in air fryer-specific liners or reusable silicone mats. And don’t be afraid to experiment—try parchment with your favorite recipes and compare results. You might find it improves texture, flavor, and convenience in ways you didn’t expect.

Whether you’re cooking salmon, reheating pizza, or baking cookies, parchment paper can help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home. By understanding its strengths, limitations, and best practices, you’ll unlock the full potential of your air fryer—safely, effectively, and deliciously. So go ahead, line that basket, and enjoy the crispy, clean, stress-free cooking that only a well-used air fryer (and parchment paper) can deliver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put parchment paper in an air fryer?

Yes, you can safely use parchment paper in an air fryer as long as it’s food-grade, heat-resistant, and doesn’t cover the heating element. Just ensure the paper is weighed down by food to prevent it from blowing around during cooking.

Is parchment paper safe for air fryer cooking at high temperatures?

Most parchment paper is safe for air fryers up to 425°F (220°C), which covers the typical air fryer temperature range. Always check the packaging for heat resistance and avoid direct contact with the heating element.

Can you put parchment paper in an air fryer without oil?

Yes, parchment paper works well in air fryers even without added oil, especially for delicate foods like fish or baked goods. The paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier while allowing air to circulate for crispy results.

What’s the best way to use parchment paper in an air fryer?

Cut the parchment to fit your basket, leaving space around the edges for airflow, and always place food on top to weigh it down. Pre-cut perforated parchment liners designed for air fryers are also a convenient, mess-free option.

Can you reuse parchment paper in an air fryer?

You can reuse parchment paper in an air fryer if it’s still intact and not overly greasy or charred. However, for hygiene and performance, it’s best to use fresh parchment for sticky or heavily seasoned foods.

Does parchment paper affect air fryer cooking time?

Parchment paper may slightly slow cooking by blocking some airflow, but the difference is usually minimal. Adjust cooking time by 1-2 minutes if needed, and always flip food halfway for even results.