Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C) if baking, or preheat deep-fryer to 350°F (175°C) if frying. Pat bacon slices dry with paper towels. On a cutting board, cut each bacon slice lengthwise into 3 equal strips (for 12 slices you will have 36 fries).

Make breading stations

Set up three shallow bowls: bowl 1 - flour mixed with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, coarse salt, black pepper, and cayenne; bowl 2 - whisk together eggs and milk; bowl 3 - panko mixed with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.

Coat bacon

Working in batches of 6 strips, dredge each bacon strip in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, then press into the panko-Parmesan mixture to coat thoroughly. Place coated strips on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Repeat until all strips are coated.

Cook bacon fries

Choose one cooking method: - Deep-fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry bacon strips in batches 3–4 minutes until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels. - Oven-bake: Arrange rack with bacon fries so they are not touching. Lightly spray or brush with oil. Bake 12–16 minutes, flip halfway, until crispy and golden (time will vary by oven and bacon thickness). - Air-fryer: Preheat air-fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray basket and fries with oil. Cook in a single layer 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway, until crispy.

Finish and serve

Transfer cooked bacon fries to a serving platter. Sprinkle with a pinch of extra chopped parsley and a small sprinkle of flaky salt if desired. Serve immediately with dipping sauce.

Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, hot sauce (if using), lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Chill for 10–15 minutes if time allows to let flavors meld.