You can cook directly on PAM-covered foil, but it will have a soggy bottom. A rack will help prevent this. I love cooking my chicken on a rack. You really need to get a rack. For a few dollars, you will become a much better cook. But get one that is "oven-safe." Some racks are cooling racks only and have a coating. If your local store does not have them, Amazon will. I list a few in Cooking for Two Shop, but others will work.