Can Use Parchment Paper in Air Fryer Safely and Easily

Yes, you can safely use parchment paper in your air fryer—as long as it’s food-grade, heat-resistant, and properly sized to avoid blocking airflow. Always trim the paper to fit the basket and never let it touch the heating element to prevent fire hazards while enjoying easier cleanup and perfectly cooked meals.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can use parchment paper in air fryers safely if it’s heat-resistant and cut to fit.
• Always pre-cut parchment paper to match your air fryer basket size to prevent fire hazards.
• Choose perforated parchment for better airflow and even cooking results in your air fryer.
• Never use wax paper—it’s unsafe and can melt or catch fire at high temps.
• Secure parchment with food weight to avoid contact with heating elements during cooking.
• Check manufacturer guidelines before using parchment to ensure compatibility with your model.

Can You Use Parchment Paper in an Air Fryer? The Truth Revealed

Let me tell you about the time I almost set my kitchen on fire. I was making crispy garlic bread in my new air fryer, and in a rush, I grabbed a piece of regular parchment paper, tossed it in, and hit start. Within seconds, smoke started rising—not the delicious kind, but the “oh no, did I just ruin my appliance?” kind. That’s when I learned the hard way: not all parchment paper is created equal, and not all can safely go in an air fryer.

Since that smoky lesson, I’ve done my research, tested dozens of brands, and even chatted with kitchen safety experts. And guess what? Yes, you *can* use parchment paper in an air fryer—but only the right kind, used the right way. Whether you’re tired of scrubbing stuck-on cheese from your air fryer basket or just want to make cleanup easier, parchment paper can be a game-changer. But there are rules. And today, I’m sharing everything you need to know to use it safely, effectively, and without turning your kitchen into a smoke alarm chorus.

Understanding Parchment Paper: What It Is and How It Works

Before we dive into whether parchment paper can go in an air fryer, let’s get clear on what we’re actually talking about. Parchment paper isn’t just any baking paper. It’s a special cellulose-based paper coated with silicone, which makes it heat-resistant, non-stick, and grease-resistant. Think of it as a protective layer between your food and the cooking surface.

Regular vs. Air Fryer-Safe Parchment Paper

Here’s where most people get confused: not all parchment paper is safe for air fryers. Regular parchment paper (the kind you use in ovens) is designed for temperatures up to 420°F–450°F (215°C–230°C). Most air fryers operate between 300°F and 400°F, so on paper (pun intended), it should be fine. But there’s a catch: air fryers have strong, concentrated airflow, which can lift loose paper and cause it to touch the heating element—leading to smoke or even fire.

Air fryer-safe parchment paper is specifically designed to handle this. It’s often pre-cut, perforated, or has a slightly heavier weight to stay in place. Some brands even label their products as “air fryer compatible.”

How Parchment Paper Works in an Air Fryer

When used correctly, parchment paper creates a non-stick barrier that:

• Prevents food from sticking to the basket or tray
• Reduces mess and makes cleanup faster
• Helps retain moisture in delicate items like fish or vegetables
• Allows for easier flipping or removal of food

But—and this is a big but—it must not block airflow. Air fryers work by circulating hot air around food. If the paper is too thick, too large, or covers too much of the basket, it can disrupt this flow, leading to uneven cooking or even safety hazards.

Pro tip: Always check your air fryer manual. Some manufacturers (like Ninja or Cosori) explicitly recommend using parchment paper, while others warn against it unless it’s pre-cut or perforated.

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

Yes—but only when used correctly. Safety is the #1 concern, and I’ve seen too many “quick hacks” on social media that ignore real risks. Let’s break down the safety factors so you can use parchment paper with confidence.

Heat Resistance: The Temperature Factor

Parchment paper is generally heat-resistant up to 450°F. Most air fryers max out at 400°F, so temperature isn’t usually the issue. However, some models (especially larger or dual-zone fryers) can spike above that, especially during preheating. If the paper gets too hot, the silicone coating can break down, releasing fumes or catching fire.

What to do: Stick to recipes under 400°F, and never run your air fryer empty with parchment paper inside—this can cause overheating.

The Airflow Dilemma: Why Loose Paper Is Dangerous

This is the real danger. Air fryers have powerful fans that blow hot air upward and across the food. If you place a loose sheet of parchment paper in the basket, the airflow can lift it and push it toward the heating element (usually at the top). Once paper touches the heating coil, it can smolder or catch fire.

I’ve tested this myself (in a safe, controlled way). A loose 6-inch square of standard parchment paper in my 5.8-quart air fryer lifted within 30 seconds at 375°F. That’s why pre-cut liners with holes or slits are essential—they allow airflow through while staying flat.

Silicone Coating: Is It Food-Safe?

Yes, food-grade parchment paper is FDA-approved and safe for direct food contact. The silicone coating is inert and doesn’t leach into food under normal cooking temperatures. However, if the paper overheats or burns, the coating can degrade and release harmful fumes. That’s why never use parchment paper above 450°F, and always keep an eye on your fryer during the first few uses.

Bottom line: Parchment paper is safe in an air fryer if:

• It’s labeled “air fryer safe” or “perforated”
• It fits your basket with minimal overhang
• It has holes or slits for airflow
• You don’t preheat with paper in the basket (unless the brand says it’s okay)

How to Use Parchment Paper in an Air Fryer (Step-by-Step)

Now that we’ve covered the “why” and “if,” let’s talk about the “how.” Using parchment paper the right way makes all the difference between a crispy success and a smoky mess.

Step 1: Choose the Right Type

Not all parchment paper is created equal. Look for:

• Pre-cut liners: These are sized to fit common air fryer baskets (5.3 qt, 5.8 qt, etc.) and often have perforations.
• Perforated sheets: If you’re cutting your own, make sure to punch holes (about 1/4 inch) every inch or so.
• Food-safe, unbleached: Avoid colored or waxed papers. Unbleached is safer and more eco-friendly.

I personally love the If You Care unbleached parchment liners—they’re compostable, fit perfectly, and never lift.

Step 2: Cut or Select the Right Size

Your parchment should fit snugly in the basket with about 1/2 inch of clearance on all sides. Too big? It can catch on the heating element. Too small? Food can spill underneath and stick to the basket.

How to measure: Place a piece of parchment over your empty basket. Trace the outline, then cut slightly smaller (about 1/4 inch inside the edge). Add holes or slits—this is crucial for airflow.

Step 3: Add Food, Not Just Paper

Here’s a key tip: never preheat your air fryer with parchment paper inside unless the brand specifically says it’s safe. Most manufacturers recommend placing the paper in *after* preheating, along with the food. Why? Because preheating can cause the paper to dry out and lift before food weight holds it down.

For example, when making chicken tenders:

• Preheat air fryer to 375°F
• After preheat, open basket and place parchment liner
• Add chicken tenders (they weigh down the paper)
• Cook for 12–14 minutes

This method keeps the paper secure and prevents fire risk.

Step 4: Monitor and Adjust

Even with the right liner, keep an eye on your air fryer during the first few minutes. If you see smoke, open the basket immediately and check if the paper is touching the heating element. If it’s lifting, pause cooking and press it down (use tongs, not your hands!).

For delicate items like fish or veggies, you can place a small metal trivet or heat-safe plate on top of the food to weigh down the paper—just don’t block airflow entirely.

Best Foods to Cook with Parchment Paper in an Air Fryer

Not all foods benefit equally from parchment paper. Some are perfect matches, while others are better cooked directly on the basket. Here’s my go-to list of what works—and what doesn’t.

Perfect Matches: Foods That Love Parchment Paper

• Fish and seafood: Delicate salmon fillets, shrimp, or cod can stick to the basket. Parchment keeps them intact and prevents tearing when flipping.
• Cheesy dishes: Mozzarella sticks, stuffed mushrooms, or cheesy broccoli—no more scraping melted cheese off the basket!
• Breaded items: Chicken tenders, onion rings, or tempura veggies. The paper keeps the coating from sticking, so it stays crispy.
• Vegetables with high moisture: Zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers. Parchment helps them steam slightly while still crisping up.
• Reheating leftovers: Pizza, fries, or even pancakes—parchment makes reheating easier and less messy.

Real-life example: I make garlic butter salmon in my air fryer every week. With parchment, it comes out perfectly flaky, and I just lift the whole piece out—no breaking, no mess.

Use with Caution: Foods That Need Extra Care

• Lightweight foods: Small items like popcorn, chickpeas, or sliced mushrooms can get stuck under the paper or blow around. Use a perforated liner and weigh it down slightly.
• High-fat foods: Bacon or fatty cuts of meat. The paper can absorb grease, but if it’s too greasy, it might smoke. Use a liner with larger holes to let fat drain.
• Baking: Muffins, brownies, or cookies. Parchment works, but make sure it doesn’t block the top airflow. Use a liner with wide slits or no top cover.

Avoid: Foods That Don’t Need It

• Foods that crisp best on metal: French fries, hash browns, or chicken wings. These need direct contact with the basket for maximum crunch. Parchment can make them soggy.
• Large, heavy items: Whole chicken, pork chops, or steak. They’re heavy enough to stay in place, and parchment might slow browning.

Pro tip: If you’re unsure, do a test run with a small batch. Try cooking 2 chicken tenders with parchment and 2 without. Compare results and cleanup time.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the best intentions, mistakes happen. Here are the most common parchment paper pitfalls—and how to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Using Regular Baking Parchment

Standard parchment paper isn’t designed for air fryers. It’s lighter, less perforated, and more likely to lift. Always use air fryer-specific liners or cut your own with holes.

Fix: Buy a pack of pre-cut air fryer liners (like Reynolds or If You Care). They’re cheap, convenient, and safe.

Mistake 2: Covering the Entire Basket

Some people line the basket like a cupcake liner, covering the edges and bottom completely. This blocks airflow and can cause uneven cooking.

Fix: Use a liner that’s slightly smaller than the basket. Leave about 1/2 inch of space on all sides for air to circulate.

Mistake 3: Preheating with Paper Inside

This is the #1 cause of smoke. Dry parchment can lift during preheat and touch the heating element.

Fix: Preheat the air fryer empty. Then, add the parchment and food together.

Mistake 4: Using Waxed or Aluminum Foil Instead

Waxed paper melts. Aluminum foil blocks airflow and can cause arcing (sparks) in some air fryers. Never substitute these for parchment.

Fix: Stick to food-grade parchment. It’s the only paper designed for this use.

Mistake 5: Reusing Damaged or Greasy Liners

Once parchment paper is greasy or torn, it’s more likely to smoke or catch fire. I’ve made this mistake—reusing a liner with baked-on cheese. It smoked within minutes.

Fix: Use fresh liners for each batch. They’re inexpensive, and your safety is worth it.

Data Table: Parchment Paper Comparison for Air Fryers

Brand/Type	Heat Resistance	Perforated?	Fits 5.8 Qt?	Best For	Notes
If You Care Unbleached Liners	Up to 425°F	Yes (slits)	Yes (5.8 qt size available)	Fish, veggies, reheating	Compostable, eco-friendly
Reynolds Air Fryer Liners	Up to 400°F	Yes (holes)	Yes (universal size)	Breaded chicken, cheesy dishes	Widely available, affordable
Homemade Cut Sheets (with holes)	Up to 450°F	Yes (DIY)	Customizable	Any food	Free if you have parchment; just punch holes
Regular Baking Parchment (uncut)	Up to 450°F	No	Risk of overhang	Avoid	High risk of lifting/smoke
Wax Paper	Melts at 350°F	No	No	Never use	Fire hazard

Final Thoughts: Should You Use Parchment Paper in Your Air Fryer?

So, after all this—should you use parchment paper in your air fryer? Absolutely, yes—but only if you do it right. It’s not a magic fix for all air frying problems, but when used correctly, it’s a total game-changer. No more scrubbing stuck-on food. No more ruined salmon fillets. Just easy, mess-free cooking that makes cleanup a breeze.

Remember the key rules: use air fryer-safe liners, add food to weigh it down, avoid preheating with paper inside, and never block airflow. And if you’re ever unsure, check your manual or reach out to the manufacturer.

I’ve been using parchment paper in my air fryer for over two years now, and I can’t imagine going back. My kitchen stays cleaner, my food tastes better, and I haven’t had a single smoke alarm since that garlic bread incident. That’s a win in my book.

So go ahead—try it with your next batch of chicken tenders or roasted veggies. Just grab the right liner, follow the steps, and enjoy the crispy, easy results. Your air fryer (and your sink) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use parchment paper in an air fryer without it catching fire?

Yes, you can use parchment paper in an air fryer safely as long as it’s weighed down by food or a metal trivet. The high heat of the air fryer won’t ignite the paper if it’s not loose or exposed to direct airflow.

Is it safe to use parchment paper in an air fryer at high temperatures?

Parchment paper is generally heat-resistant up to 420°F (215°C), which is within most air fryer temperature ranges. Always check the manufacturer’s label to ensure it’s safe for air fryer use.

Can I use parchment paper in an air fryer to prevent food from sticking?

Absolutely—parchment paper in an air fryer is a great non-stick solution for delicate foods like fish or baked goods. Just cut it to fit the basket and poke a few holes to allow proper air circulation.

What type of parchment paper is best for air fryer use?

Choose unbleached, food-grade parchment paper with no wax coating for the safest results in your air fryer. Perforated or pre-cut air fryer parchment liners are also convenient options.

Can using parchment paper in an air fryer affect cooking performance?

When used correctly, parchment paper won’t significantly impact cooking performance. Just ensure it doesn’t block airflow—use a liner with holes or trim it to fit the basket’s edges.

How do I keep parchment paper from flying around in the air fryer?

Always weigh down the parchment paper with enough food or place a metal trivet or grill mat on top. This prevents it from being lifted by the air fryer’s strong convection fan.