You can use foil in an air fryer — it's handy for catching drips and wrapping food — but a couple of rules keep it safe and your air fryer working properly. Here's how.
Key takeaways
Q: Can you put foil in an air fryer?
A: Yes — as long as you weigh it down with food and don't cover the whole basket, so air can still circulate.
Q: Is foil or parchment better?
A: Perforated parchment liners are usually best — they let air through. Foil is fine for wrapping or lining under food.
Using foil safely
- Weigh it down with food so it can't lift into the element.
- Leave gaps around the edges so air circulates.
- Never preheat with loose foil in an empty basket.
- Avoid acidic foods (tomato, citrus) directly on foil — they can react.
Parchment & liners
Perforated parchment liners are designed for air fryers — the holes keep airflow up while catching mess. Like foil, only add them with food on top; a loose liner in an empty, preheating basket can fly into the element.
What to avoid
- Don't line the whole base solid — it blocks the airflow that cooks the food.
- Don't use foil with very acidic dishes directly on top.
- Don't run it empty with any loose liner inside.
Blocked airflow is also a common cause of poor results and smoke — see air fryer mistakes to avoid and why your air fryer smokes.
Frequently asked questions
Can you put aluminium foil in an air fryer?
Yes, safely, if you weigh it down with food and leave gaps for airflow. Don't let loose foil sit in an empty basket while it preheats.
Can you use parchment paper in an air fryer?
Yes — perforated air fryer parchment liners are ideal, as the holes maintain airflow while catching drips. Only add them with food on top.
Why shouldn't foil touch acidic food?
Acidic ingredients like tomato and lemon can react with aluminium over time, affecting taste. Use parchment for those dishes instead.